The Lexus RC coupe has been around for a decade now, and in F Sport guise, it certainly looks the part of a performance machine. With its aggressive styling cues, including a striking black hood, the 2023 Lexus Rc 350 F Sport promises a thrilling driving experience. However, beneath the surface, does this Lexus live up to the sporty image it projects? This review dives into the reality of the RC 350 F Sport, exploring whether it’s a true sports coupe or just a stylish cruiser.
Image showcasing the 2023 Lexus RC 350 F Sport’s exterior styling, highlighting its sporty coupe design.
Lexus has a proven track record of building exceptional performance vehicles. The legendary Lexus LFA supercar and the highly praised Lexus GS F sports sedan are testaments to their engineering capabilities. Even the luxurious Lexus LC 500 grand tourer offers a compelling blend of performance and comfort. However, the RC series, tracing its roots back to the IS sedans of the mid-2000s, has never quite reached the same performance heights. Under the hood, the RC 350 F Sport features the same engine found in the 2006 Lexus IS 350, a fact that raises questions about innovation and progress. In a rapidly evolving automotive landscape, has Lexus kept pace with the competition in the sports coupe segment?
Side profile image of the Lexus RC 350 F Sport, emphasizing its coupe silhouette and F Sport badging.
Performance: Style Over Substance?
Despite its aggressive aesthetics, the Lexus RC 350 F Sport’s performance lags behind its six-cylinder rivals. The 3.5-liter V6 engine produces 311 horsepower and 280 lb-ft of torque, with peak torque arriving at a relatively high 4,800 RPM. Mated to an outdated six-speed automatic transmission, the RC 350 F Sport achieves a 0-60 mph time of 5.7 seconds. While this might seem respectable on paper, it pales in comparison to competitors like the BMW M440i, which can accomplish the same feat in a mere 4.0 seconds. Even base four-cylinder Mustangs outpace the V6-powered RC 350 F Sport. The engine only truly comes alive above 4,500 RPM, leaving a noticeable lack of power in the lower rev ranges. The six-speed automatic further exacerbates this issue, with fewer gears making it challenging to keep the engine in its optimal power band. Fuel economy is also a concern, with the RC 350 AWD averaging around 20 MPG, which is less than some V8-powered vehicles.
Interior shot of the 2023 Lexus RC 350 F Sport, highlighting the yellow accents and leather seating.
Handling and Ride Comfort: Cruiser, Not Carver
The Lexus RC 350 F Sport is more at home cruising at seven-tenths than pushing its limits. Attempting spirited driving reveals noticeable body roll and understeer. Quick transitions on winding roads can unsettle the car, and its 4,000-pound weight contributes to a less agile feel. The tires seem inadequate for true performance driving, and while the steering is acceptable with a thin leather-wrapped wheel, it lacks the weight and feedback needed for enthusiastic cornering. Ultimately, the RC 350 F Sport prioritizes ride comfort over sharp handling, making it more of a grand tourer than a dedicated sports coupe.
Interior and Features: Luxury with Quirks
Inside, the Lexus RC 350 F Sport offers a luxurious cabin with comfortable, supple leather seats. The yellow accents in the test vehicle evoke a sporty McLaren-esque vibe, though this clashes with the car’s actual performance capabilities. While the interior is generally well-assembled and quiet, some elements feel dated or out of place. The cruise control stalk appears to be a carryover from older Lexus models, and the volume knob has an oddly cheap, rubbery texture. The sunroof’s manual shade is also cumbersome and less refined than expected in a luxury vehicle. Rear passenger space is limited, particularly headroom, making it unsuitable for taller adults.
Exterior front angle of the Lexus RC 350 F Sport, showcasing its front grille and headlight design.
Infotainment and Technology: Lagging Behind
The Lexus RC 350 F Sport’s infotainment system is a point of frustration. While it now features a touchscreen, the system still relies heavily on the cumbersome trackpad controller. The touchscreen integration feels somewhat incomplete, with certain functions requiring the use of physical buttons. Furthermore, the infotainment system is not the latest version found in newer Lexus and Toyota models, indicating a lack of updates and modernization in this area. This dated technology detracts from the overall user experience and falls short of contemporary expectations in the luxury segment.
Close-up interior image of the Lexus RC, highlighting the infotainment screen and center console.
Conclusion: Style Over Performance for the Lexus RC 350 F Sport
The 2023 Lexus RC 350 F Sport excels as a comfortable and refined touring coupe. Its quiet cabin, comfortable seats, and smooth ride make it a pleasant car for everyday driving and longer journeys. However, its sporty F Sport designation and aggressive styling create expectations of performance that it simply cannot meet. At a price point around $60,000, the RC 350 F Sport faces stiff competition from genuinely faster and more engaging sports coupes. For those prioritizing looks and a comfortable ride over outright performance and driving dynamics, the RC 350 F Sport may appeal. However, driving enthusiasts seeking a true sports coupe experience will find better alternatives in the BMW M240i, BMW M440i, Genesis G70, Toyota GR Supra, or even a Chevrolet Camaro SS 1LE. Ultimately, the Lexus RC 350 F Sport risks appealing to those who prioritize image over substance, seeking the appearance of a sports car without the desire for true performance.
Pros:
- Eye-catching, sporty styling
- Comfortable ride quality
- Luxurious interior
Cons:
- Underwhelming performance compared to competitors
- Dated powertrain and technology
- Higher price point for its performance level
